Flights to Cairo

Things to do in Cairo

Visit the incredible Egyptian Museum and take the opportunity to spend time gazing at the glistening riches of Tutankhamen.

The pyramids and Great Sphinx at Giza, just outside the city, are equally as impressive and are must see attractions when visiting Cairo. The Solar Boat Museum is an intact 44m funerary vessel discovered at the foot of the Great Pyramid. The 14th century marketplace Khan el Khalili is one of the Arab world’s grandest souks; put your haggling skills to the test and get yourself a bargain souvenir. The former settlement of Babylon in Old Cairo became the home of Coptic Christians as the Roman Empire dissolved. The main sights to see here are the Coptic Museum, Babylon Fortress and the Hanging Church. For peace and tranquility Sail back in time in one of the small, two-sail feluccas which have plied their trade on the Nile for centuries.

Giza

Visit the pyramids and sphinx at Giza. Take a guided tour or explore at your own pace, either way this wonder of the Ancient World is well worth the visit. Whilst at the pyramids, don’t miss the Solar Boat museum, beautifully presented and absolutely fascinating.

The Egyptian Museum

Spend the morning, you will need at least that at the Egyptian Museum. Be prepared to come back a couple of times, as there is so much to take in. You get to spend quality time with Tutankhamun and Rameses the Great.

Cairo restaurants

Buy an Arab Spring t-shirt in Tahrir Square, then wander over to Felfela for lunch. It’s an authentic, atmospheric Egyptian restaurant and a good introduction to a cuisine that’s at once healthy, spicy and fresh. Over in Giza, head to the restaurant Andrea – great al fresco dining – and cooking.

A trip down the Nile

From a relaxing dinner cruise to an early morning row, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to see the river that created a civilisation. Best of all, take a traditional felucca boat trip just before sunset.

Sandboarding in Cairo

Not far from the city you’ll find the Kataneya Dunes, the authentic steep, sculpted Sahara things you’ll have seen in the movies, where you can try sandboarding. Choose whether to be a daredevil (standing) or a sensible person (sitting). Either way, you get a starlit barbecue afterwards.